His lawyer, Waheed Omran-Baber, said the defendant was significantly remorseful for what he had done.

He told Preston Crown Court: “It is rare for an offender to be so affected by what he has done. He has found himself psychologically affected.

“He is seeking counselling and on anti depressants.”

The judge said he was dealing with a young man of previous good character, who had acted out of character and under some degree of provocation. He had genuine remorse and it had been an isolated incident. Many references and testimonials had been handed in on his behalf, he added.

McLaren was put on a 12 months community order, which will involved 80 hours of unpaid work. He was told he will have to pay his victim £150 compensation.

The judge, Recorder Simon Hilton, told him: “A single blow you delivered in frustration perhaps resulted in very significant injuries.”